The official blog of UK Forces in Afghanistan, run jointly from London and Helmand.

2 SCOTS march through Ayr town centre

‘SOLDIERS who took on the Taliban in Afghanistan paraded through Scottish streets to celebrate their homecoming.

The Royal Highland Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland (2 SCOTS) held parades in Glasgow and Ayr to show their appreciation for the support the public have given them during their tour of duty in Helmand province.

2 SCOTS march through the streets of Ayr. Photographer: Mark Owens, Army HQ2Div

Every member of the regiment has served in Afghanistan in the past seven months, with the final few only returning to British soil this week. Every member returned as there were no fatalities on the tour.

Sergeant Stephen Carr said the mission had been tough but successful.

He said: “During my six-and-a-half months in Afghanistan I saw huge progress being made as we worked in partnership with the Afghan National Police.

“They have come a long way and it is very rewarding to see that the work being done out there has improved their skills.

2 SCOTS march through Ayr town centre. Photographer: Mark Owens, Army HQ2Div

“The people who have turned out to watch today’s parade just confirms the support the guys have felt throughout our time there and it’s really nice to put faces to the members of the public who have been behind us.”

To read the rest of this story at DailyRecord.co.uk click HERE, or on any of the images.

2 SCOTS march through the streets of Ayr. Photographer: Mark Owens, Army HQ2Div